Welcome to my professional space! I’m Sonal Patel, a dedicated keynote speaker, workshop facilitator, educator, and researcher. Currently, I serve as the Program Manager for Computer Science and Digital Learning at a prominent California county office of education. My role involves building, planning, and implementing equitable educational technology and Computer Science initiatives, with a keen focus on ensuring their successful integration across diverse educational settings.

As a staunch advocate for equity in education, I am deeply committed to embedding transformative, culturally responsive practices within blended learning models. My professional workshops and personalized coaching sessions are designed to empower educators, enabling them to foster engaging and inclusive classrooms.

In addition to my core responsibilities, I am extensively involved in advancing AI literacy in education. Through my initiatives, I strive to equip educators and students with the critical skills necessary to navigate and thrive in an increasingly AI-driven world. My work in this area aims to demystify AI technologies, promoting an understanding of ethical implications and practical applications in the educational sphere.

I hope you can join me on my journey to transform educational landscapes through technology, inclusivity, and innovation.

My dedication to enhancing computer science education extends beyond my current role. I am honored to be a CSTA Equity Fellow, a co-founder of the California Inland Empire Computer Science Equity Network, a Google Certified Trainer and Innovator, and a member of Our Voice Alliance (OVA). In these capacities, I actively contribute to the ongoing pursuit of equity and accessibility in education.

In 2022, my efforts were recognized when I received ISTE’s 20 to Watch Award, an acknowledgment of my positive impact and potential as an emerging leader in the education community.

In March 2023, I had the privilege of being the keynote speaker for the CUE National conference, an event dedicated to helping educators enhance their skills and expand their professional network in the education technology space.

The culmination of my educational journey was in April 2023, when I achieved a significant milestone by graduating with my doctoral degree in Leadership for Educational Justice. This transformative experience equipped me with a profound understanding of the challenges faced by marginalized communities in education, empowering me to drive positive change.